Cruising FAQ

1. What ship are we sailing on for this full ship charter?
2. How big is the ship?
3. How soon do I need to make my reservation?
4. How do I make my reservation?
5. How can I view the cabin categories and stateroom descriptions?
6. What if the Cabin Category or Stateroom We Want Does Not Show Available?
7. What is included in the price of my cruise?
8. What is not included in the price of the cruise?
9. How much is my deposit and when is payment due?
10. Price Guarantee
11. What forms of payment can I use?
12. When do my cruise tickets arrive and what can I expect?
13. What about rates for the single traveler?
14. What about airline reservations?
15. What time does the ship sail?
16. What if I have to cancel my cruise?
17. What about Travel Insurance?
18. What if I have to make a change to my reservation?
19. Will I get seasick?
20. What travel requirements and forms of identification are needed?
21. How do I obtain a passport?
22. When can I board the ship?
23. What amenities are in my stateroom?
24. Are blow dryers provided in the cabins?
25. Are there electrical outlets in each stateroom?
26. Is there a safe to store my valuables?
27. Are there laundry facilities onboard?
28. Do cell phones work on board?
29. Is there an Internet connection on board?
30. Can I call home when onboard the ship?
31. Can friends and family contact us on the ship in case of an emergency?
32. Is there access to ATMs?
33. What about dining room reservations?
34. What are the unlimited Soft Drink or Wine packages?
35. What are the tipping guidelines?
36. What is Royal Caribbean's SeaPass Card?
37. How do I pay for my onboard purchases?
38. Is smoking permitted on the ship?
39. What is the onboard alcohol policy?
40. What about shore excursions?
41. Special needs/celebrating any special occasions?
42. Can I participate in the Guest Talent Show?
43. What type of clothing should I pack?
44. Are there any luggage restrictions?
45. Where can I go for weather information?
46. What about a hurricane?
47. What about money?
48. How far is the Orlando Airport from the Cruise Terminal?
49. What are the driving directions to the Port?
50. Is there parking at the cruise terminal and what is the cost?
51. >What about the fuel surcharge?
52. Tell me more about SwingersCruise.com.

What ship are we sailing on for this full ship charter?

7nt April 2013: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's Brilliance of the Seas (Ship Registry: Bahamas).

7nt November 2012: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's Freedom of the Seas (Ship Registry: Bahamas).

Alaskan cruise August 21, 2011: Celebrity Cruise Line's Century.

How big is the ship?

7nt April 2013: Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas has a total passenger capacity of 2502. It measures 962 feet long and has 90,090 gross tonnage.

7nt November 2012: Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas has a total passenger capacity of 3634. It measures 1,112 feet long and has 154,407 gross tonnage.

Alaskan cruise August 21, 2011: Celebrity's has a total passenger capacity of 1,814. It measures 815 feet long and has 71,545 gross tonnage.

How soon do I need to make my reservation?

Advance booking is essential. Rates are not guaranteed until deposit is received. Cabin prices are subject to availability and our lifestyle cruises tend to sell out quickly, so reserve your cabin space early to ensure the best rates. Cabins are on a first come/first served basis.

How do I make my reservation?

You can book directly on this website by clicking the "Book Now" button. Here you will be able to view the ship's actual Deck Plan and view available cabin categories and pricing. We make it easy by allowing you to select your own cabin from our real time inventory (subject to availability). You can also call our office to speak to an agent at (888) 222-2145.

How can I view the cabin categories and stateroom descriptions?

Click the "Book Now" button and you will be able to view the ship's deck plan. If you then click on any deck, you will be able to view the available cabins by category along with their description. Stateroom descriptions will include square footage and a picture showing the sample floor plan. If you do not see the cabin category you want, simply call the office at (888) 222-2145.

What if the Cabin Category or Stateroom We Want Does Not Show Available?

When making your reservation and selecting your stateroom, you will notice each stateroom category is color coded. Any stateroom that is colored gray is sold out. If a desired category is sold out, you can put your name on a waiting list and there is a very good chance that you'll be accommodated. Currently, we are clearing the waiting list and confirming specific stateroom requests within 48 hours; however, you do need to make a reservation and secure it with a deposit payment first. Simply book the lower category and indicate in the Comments section that you would like to be on the waiting list for a specific category (e.g., suite, deluxe balcony, etc).

What is included in the price of my cruise?

The price of your cruise includes shipboard accommodations, prepaid gratuities, all meals, some beverages (tea, juice, lemonade and water), 24-hour snacks and complimentary room service, nightly entertainment, dancing, access to all of the public bars, discos, theaters, shows... and so much more.

All stateroom prices have been quoted with a one-time additional charge of $350 per person ($375 p/p suites), which will cover port charges, government taxes, document fees, gratuities, administration and security fees.

The Alaskan cruise has an additional charge of $578 per person ($599 p/p suites) which will cover port charges, government taxes, document fees, gratuities, administration and security fees. NOTE: Port Charges and Taxes on cruises to Alaska are the highest in the world. We do not mark up or add anything to these govt charges. While we do not like that the charges are so much higher in Alaska, we have to charge them, like everybody else. In the end, we feel that it is worth it to see such a wonder of the world as the Beautiful Glaciers and Alaskan Straits. We know you will think it was worth it too.

What is not included in the price of the cruise?

Wines, liquors and some soft drinks, optional shore excursions, any personal services such as laundry, spa treatments, beauty parlor, souvenir photographs, etc., and transportation to and from the ship. Prices also do not include dining at one of the specialty restaurants (Chops, a steakhouse and Portofino's, a fine Italian restaurant).

How much is my deposit and when is payment due?

An initial deposit is due to reserve your cabin space. We recommend paying your deposit as soon as possible, as cabins are based on availability and rates are not guaranteed until deposit is made. Your deposit payment will be deducted from your balance, and additional payments will automatically be processed with the credit card on file at the scheduled due date. Payments can be made by Visa, MasterCard, and American Express cards.

Price Guarantee

We guarantee you the lowest price, no matter when you book. If you book early, you'll get to pick your cabin without worrying about missing out on last minute sales or discounts. If we reduce our rates, you'll get the lower price, no matter when you book. We want you to book with confidence. If we have a sale, we'll credit the difference on your final payment or if you are paid in full, we'll give you a refund. So don't wait or you may miss the boat. This cruise is very popular and WILL sell out in advance. Book today!

What forms of payment can I use?

We can accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.

When do my cruise tickets arrive and what can I expect?

You will receive an invoice via email approximately 7 days after making your reservation. Please double-check to ensure the correct spelling of your name. We need to be notified within 48 hours if any changes need to be made.

Approximately 60 days prior to sailing you will receive (via email) your official Cruise Reservation Number (which is assigned by Royal Caribbean or Celebrity). You will need this Cruise Reservation Number to complete the required Online Check-In Process. All passengers are REQUIRED to complete the cruise line's Online Check-In no later than 3 days prior to sailing. By checking in online, you will expedite your boarding process and will be able to start enjoying your cruise vacation much faster.

Closer to your departure date, you will start to receive email updates from us regarding details on your cruise, including theme nights, pre-cruise festivities and private shore excursions.

All passengers will be required to read and sign our "Couples Cruise Rules & Conduct Policy" prior to boarding.

What about rates for the single traveler?

This is a couples cruise; however, single ladies will be allowed to accompany a couple in their cabin. The additional cost for the 3rd passenger is $275 for most cabins and $425 for suites. For the purpose of this cruise, a couple is one male and one female.

What about airline reservations?

The prices listed on our website are cruise only.  The 11/11/12 cruise departs from Port Canaveral, which is approx 40 minutes from the Orlando International airport (MCO).
 
Please make travel arrangements to the Cruise Terminal to ensure you board no later than 3:30pm.   When the ship returns to port, please allow 1-2 hours before debarkation for Customs and Immigration clearance.  To allow sufficient time, passengers departing from Orlando Airport should schedule their flight home after 1:30 pm.

What time does the ship sail?

The ship will move away from the dock at 4:30 pm. Embarkation begins at 10:30 am. All passengers must be checked in and aboard the ship no later than 3:30 pm or your reservation may be canceled.

What if I have to cancel my cruise?

If you find it necessary to cancel your cruise reservation, once your deposit has been made, the cancellation policy will be listed on your invoice.

What about Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance will generally cover Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Trip Delay, Medical Expenses Coverage, Emergency Evacuation, Baggage Protection, and Worldwide Emergency Assistance 24-hours a day. The cost of the insurance will vary based on the length and cost of the cruise. We recommend the purchase of this travel insurance and accept no responsibility for your waiver of this protection.

What if I have to make changes to my reservation?

If you find it necessary to make a change to your existing reservation once deposit has been made, a change fee will be applicable.

Will I get seasick?

Because of the large size of today's cruise ships, as well as stabilizing devices, very few people ever experience seasickness. If you are afraid you might be prone to seasickness, there are many over-the-counter medications available at your local pharmacy. If you forget to bring your own, these medications are also available onboard the ship.

What travel requirements and forms of identification are needed?

All U.S. citizens traveling by land and sea are required to present a valid passport as proof of citizenship. Guest names on travel documents (e.g., passports) must be identical to those on the cruise tickets. Resident aliens must travel with their “Green Card” Alien registration cards. Guests from other countries should check with their appropriate consulate to determine necessary travel documentation. Any guest arriving at the pier without valid documentation will not be allowed to board the ship and no refund of the cruise fare will be issued. To apply for a passport or for more information, visit www.travel.state.gov.

How do I obtain a passport?

For more information, you can call the U.S. National Passport Information Center at (877) 487-2778 or visit the State Department's travel website at www.travel.state.gov.

When can I board the ship?

Embarkation normally begins at 10:30 a.m., and passengers MUST be aboard at least 60 minutes prior to departure. The ship sails at 4:30 p.m. but please make travel arrangements to the Tampa pier to ensure you board no later than 3:30 p.m. Arrive early to get situated in your cabin and let the PARTYING begin!

What amenities are in my stateroom?

All staterooms are equipped with a television, telephone, computer jack, refrigerator/mini-bar, hair dryer, 110/220 electrical outlets, and individually controlled air condition / heating.

What amenities are in my stateroom?

All staterooms are equipped with a television, telephone, computer jack, refrigerator/mini-bar, hair dryer, 110/220 electrical outlets, and individually controlled air condition / heating.

Are blow dryers provided in the cabins?

Yes, all staterooms and suites are equipped with blow dryers.

Are there electrical outlets in each stateroom?

Yes, all staterooms have standard 3-prong 110/220 electrical outlets.

Is there a safe to store my valuables?

For each guest's convenience and security a safe is provided in every stateroom (located in either the closet or cabinet).

Are there laundry facilities onboard?

Self-service laundry facilities are not provided onboard the ship, but they do offer full laundry and dry cleaning services for a nominal fee. Irons are not provided in the staterooms as they constitute a fire hazard.

Do cell phones work on board?

If you want to know whether your cell phone will work outside U.S., please contact your cellular company regarding International usage.

Is there an Internet connection on board?

For those guests who want the option of staying connected, the ship proudly offers access to the internet onboard their Internet Café and wireless networks using the ship’s own satellite connection. The Internet Café is open 24-hours a day and features private terminals with the latest flat panel computer monitors.  There is a nominal fee for these services.

Can I call home when onboard the ship?

Yes, you can make outgoing telephone calls. The ship's telecommunications network offers direct dialing via satellite from your stateroom telephone. This is available 24 hours a day regardless of the ship's location. The rate is $7.95 USD per minute for calls to the United States. All charges will be automatically charged to your SeaPass account. Since all communication is via satellite, guests cannot use calling cards, credit cards, dial 800 toll-free numbers nor make collect calls.

Can Friends and Family contact us on the ship in case of an Emergency?

You can easily be reached on your vacation with shore-to-ship calling. The telephone number is (888) 724-SHIP. The operator will need a major credit card, ship name (Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas) and passenger's name and cabin number. TALK FAST...shore-to-ship calling is approximately $7.95 per minute.

Is there access to ATMs?

There are ATMs aboard the ships (nominal fee per transaction).

What about dining room reservations?

This cruise will be set up with a flexible "eat when you wish" system which will allow you to eat early on one night and late on another in the Leonardo Dining Room. There are no table assignments and you will not be locked into either  early or late seating. It's your cruise, you decide when you want to eat. Dining is 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

You will, however, need to make advanced reservations for either of the ship's specialty restaurants (Chops Grill or Portofino's). Reservations can be made onboard at the restaurant and seating is based on availability.

What are the unlimited Soft Drink and Wine packages?

The soda fountain package entitles you to unlimited soft drink refills at any of the ship's bars, lounges and dining rooms. A complimentary souvenir cup is included and the cost is approximately $6.00 per day. The soda fountain package is sold for the entire length of the cruise and is a great deal. An icon will be placed on your SeaPass Card which indicates your participation in the unlimited soft drink package. The cruise line also offers discounted wine packages, which you can purchase in the various bars and lounges onboard (or ask your waiter in the main dining room).

What are the tipping guidelines?

For your convenience, gratuities have been prepaid and are included in the price of your cruise. These gratuities include your Cabin Steward, Waiter, Busboy and Maitre’D. You are free to extend additional gratuities to any of the ship's staff that provide exceptional service. There will be an envelope in your stateroom on the last night of the cruise for this purpose.  Please note a 15% gratuity will be automatically added to any bar bill and Spa & Salon services.

What is Royal Caribbean's Sea Pass Card?

Before you board the ship, the cruise line will issue a SeaPass card that is used to check your identity each time you board and leave the vessel. This card will have your photograph and will be used to gain access to your stateroom, as a form of identification, and to make onboard purchases.

How do I pay for my onboard purchases?

The cruise lines operate on a "cashless" system, meaning your SeaPass card will be used as a charge card to make all onboard purchases. At check-in, you will activate your SeaPass card with a major credit card and any onboard purchases will be charged directly to your account (in lieu of accepting cash on board). A running tab of all your purchases will be kept and at the end of the cruise, an itemized statement will be left in your stateroom.  Your total will be automatically charged to your credit card on file or you can settle your account at the end of the cruise however you wish.  If you don't have a credit card, you can activate an account with traveler’s checks, debit cards or cash.

Is smoking permitted on the ship?

Smoking is permitted on the ship in designated areas only. By popular request, dining rooms are now smoke-free.

What is the onboard alcohol policy?

Guests are not allowed to bring alcohol onboard for consumption and any alcohol found in a guest's possession is subject to confiscation. The drinking age on the ship is 21 in US waters and 18 at sea.  Bottles of alcohol that are purchased in ports-of-call or from shops onboard will be stored by the ship and delivered to your stateroom on the last day of the sailing.

What about shore excursions?

At every port of call, various sightseeing tours are available for purchase (such as snorkeling/scuba tours, a stingray or dolphin adventure, shopping excursions, beach barbecue parties, etc.). These optional shore excursions are available for purchase aboard the ship at their Shore Excursion Desk.

We will be offering some private, clothing-optional tours exclusively for our lifestyle passengers. We will email you the details of these excursions closer to the sailing date and you will be able to book them in advance.

What about special needs, celebrations and/or special occasions?

Be sure to let us know if you or your traveling companion(s) are celebrating a special occasion. In addition, if you have any special needs (such as dietary requirements, wheelchairs, etc.), be sure to let us know so that we can make sure your needs are met.

Can I participate in the Guest Talent Show?

If you have any special talents, you are welcome to sign up onboard for the Guest Talent Show. Be sure to bring your music or instruments, etc., (no comedians or lip syncs allowed).

What type of clothing should I pack?

Casual attire is in order during the day -- with lots of beachwear. Shorts and t-shirts are not permitted in the dining room during dinner. There is one formal night on this cruise, where passengers wear anything from cocktail party dresses, evening gowns and tuxedos, to business suit attire. Closer to the sailing date you will also be advised of any special theme night parties being organized.

Are there any luggage restrictions?

Each guest may bring onboard 3 pieces of baggage (reasonably sized) free of charge. All luggage must be stored in the passenger’s stateroom. At check-in your luggage will be given to luggage handlers to bring onto the ship (with 20,000 other pieces!). There will be special luggage tags that you will attach to your bags to identify them. You will find these luggage tags inside your ticket booklet or you can get them at check-in. Your luggage should arrive to your cabin before dinner (but could be as late as midnight, so make sure you have something to wear in a carry-on). Please remember to carry all your valuables with you (including cruise tickets, passports, medication, cameras, etc.) and bring a carry-on for all the things that you will need immediately.

All luggage hand carried or checked is subject to search. Liability for luggage is limited to the amount of $300 per ticket. If you are traveling by air, please remember that each airline has its own luggage restrictions. You are responsible for contacting your airline so they can advise you about their individual luggage restrictions and policies.

Where can I get weather information?

http://www.weather.com/ provides current weather information for anywhere you travel.

What about a hurricane?

Hurricane season encompasses the months of June through November. Due to the unpredictable nature of hurricanes, it may not be possible to give information about itinerary changes in advance of the sailing - mostly because hurricanes have been known to change their course drastically at the last minute. It is rare for a cancellation to occur due to an impending hurricane. In some instances an itinerary deviation is implemented to avoid a storm. The cruise line's main priority is the safety of their guests. The cruise lines will always make decisions that assure the cruise experience will be a great one and that all passengers are safe. Our agency will closely monitor any hurricane activity that could affect our cruises.

What about money?

The amount of money to bring onboard is an individual's personal choice.  U.S. currency and traveler's checks are accepted in most ports of call.  While traveler's checks are safe and convenient, you might also wish to bring a reasonable amount of U.S. currency.  There are ATM machines onboard each ship.

How far is the Orlando Airport to the Cruise Terminal?

The Orlando International Airport (MCO) is located about 40 miles from the cruise terminal.

Please make travel arrangements to the Cruise Terminal to ensure you board no later than 3:30pm.   When the ship returns to port, please allow 1-2 hours before debarkation for Customs and Immigration clearance.  To allow sufficient time, passengers departing from Tampa Airport should schedule their flight home after 1:00 pm.

What are the Driving Directions to the Port?

Driving directions to the port can be found at MapQuest.com and the address is Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal #10, 9005 Charles M. Rowland Drive, Cape Canaveral, FL.

Is there parking at the cruise terminal and what is the cost?

Yes, there is a six-level parking garage located at the Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal #10, which is gated and under 24-hour surveillance. There is also an open outdoor lot across the street.  The parking fee is approximately $15 USD per day (subject to change), and is payable upon entry into the parking area in the form of cash or credit card.

What about the fuel surcharge?

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Cruise lines reserve the right to reinstate the fuel supplement for all guests.

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